Graeme Park

Colonial Home of provincial governor Sir William Keith

Graeme Park Credit: R. Kennedy for GPTMC

Description

The Experience

Some women just keep picking the wrong guy. First, Elizabeth Graeme got a “Dear Jane” letter from her intended, William Franklin (Ben’s son). The cad married another woman during a trip to England. Then, the charming scoundrel she eventually married turned out to be a Loyalist and the Patriots confiscated her family home. They split (quite a scandal) and it took years to reclaim her home.

At least she had a beautiful setting in which to mend her broken heart. Built in 1722, the manor originally belonged to Sir William Keith, William Penn’s provincial governor in his new colony. The furnishings are sparse, but the paint and floors are original and the park setting is idyllic.

History

When Elizabeth married, her family’s estate became her husband’s property. Although it was her husband and not she who was the turncoat, the Confiscation Act of 1778 permitted the seizure of any traitor’s property. In 1848, Pennsylvania granted property rights to married women but the law was repealed. It wasn’t until 1893 that women could own property, regardless of marital status.

Other Information

Open Wed – Sun

Insider Tip

Elizabeth Graeme was a serious dog-lover. When her beloved pup died, she staged a full-blown funeral and burial ceremony.

Kids’ Stuff

Feeding the ducks or picnicking in the park surrounding the house is a good post-history break for kids.